The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a global platform where stakeholders from various backgrounds come together to discuss critical issues related to the Internet’s impact on society. From October 8th to October 12th, I had the chance to attend the IGF 2023 in Kyoto, Japan. In this blog post, I’ll share my experiences and insights from this significant event, which covered a wide range of topics, from digital cooperation for environmental sustainability to the role of parliamentarians in shaping a trusted internet.
IGF 2023 Highlights
The IGF 2023 opened with powerful remarks from the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and the Prime Minister of Japan, emphasizing the importance of multistakeholder cooperation in addressing global challenges such as sustainable development and climate action. The theme of the event, “The Internet We Want – Empowering All People,” highlighted the commitment to creating an inclusive and sustainable digital future.
Day 0: Setting the Stage
The event’s first day featured an inspiring opening ceremony and a session on “Future Network Systems as Open Service Platform in Beyond5G/6G Era.” This session provided insights into the evolution of network systems, setting the tone for the discussions to come.
Day 1: Environmental Sustainability and Trusted Internet
On the first day, I attended two enlightening sessions. “An Untapped Resource: How Can Digital Cooperation Contribute to the Battle for Our Environment?” explored the role of digital cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. In “The Role of Parliamentarians in Shaping a Trusted Internet Empowering All People,” I learned about the crucial role of legislators in shaping a trustworthy and inclusive Internet.
Day 2: AI-Driven Education
Day 2 delved into the future of education with the session “AI-Driven Learning Revolution in Cambodian Higher Education.” This discussion was particularly relevant as it explored the potential of AI in transforming Cambodia’s educational landscape.
Day 3: Inclusive Energy Transition
A highlight of my IGF experience was the session on “Accelerating an Inclusive Energy Transition.” This session provided valuable insights into the global transition toward sustainable energy sources and the role that digital technologies can play in this transition. It emphasized the importance of ensuring an energy transition that leaves no one behind.
Day 4: Rule of Law for Data Governance
The final day featured a session on “Rule of Law for Data Governance,” which underscored the significance of governing data while respecting the rule of law. This is particularly crucial in the digital age, where data plays a pivotal role in shaping our world.
Contributions to Cambodia
My participation in IGF 2023 has equipped me with valuable knowledge and fresh perspectives. I’m committed to promoting responsible digital technology use, advocating for internet inclusivity, and supporting initiatives that leverage AI for education and sustainable energy transitions in Cambodia. I plan to actively engage in projects that align with these goals, working toward a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive Cambodia.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Open Development Cambodia (ODC) for their unwavering support in making my participation in IGF 2023 possible. Their support allowed me to engage with global thought leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the pressing issues in internet governance. I look forward to sharing my newfound knowledge and contributing to Cambodia’s digital future, all made possible by the support of ODC.
In conclusion, the IGF 2023 in Kyoto, Japan, was a transformative experience that opened doors to new opportunities and ideas for shaping the future of the internet. With a commitment to positive change, I am excited to play my part in building a brighter digital future for Cambodia and beyond.
